Google formed with an internal motto of "Don't Be Evil" in response to the perceived business practices of Microsoft, and then proceeded over the years to manipulate customer data (see what Google does when you search) and force software on users (see how you are already signed up for Google+) much like Redmond. Now the Mountain View company is taking hypocrisy to a new level with their latest lawsuit against the Apple- and Microsoft-led Rockstar Consortium. Ah, the irony!

This week's stories are about resurrection of old names, how one company pivoted in the face of the iPhone's awesome-sauce, the unveiling of some new amazingness we've all been waiting for plus the newest games of the week and a few apps that might just keep you sane these last few weeks of the year. That and more as always, just step right inside.

It's a hot week in the news if you're interested in the future of cellphones. Carriers are getting shut down on the lock-out while one of the nation's biggest providers thinks the same big bucks they've been raking in over the years isn't quite enough. Plus some holiday classics get the iOS treatment. That and more under the fold, so dig in.

With every update, Google manages to improve its own third-party apps a little more on the iOS platform. This week, both Google Maps and Google Drive received welcome updates that bring small but convenient features.

Google Chrome is one of the world's most popular browsers, and one of its perks is the ability to use apps designed for the browser through the interface at any time. In September, however, Google rolled out Chrome Apps, which perform not like browser apps, but like native apps for whatever device you happen to be using. Up until now, only users of Windows computers and Chromebooks have had access to the feature, but TechCrunch reports that Google is finally bringing Chrome Apps to the Mac.

Proving that tech companies can set aside their rivalries and differences for a good cause, some of the biggest names in Silicon Valley have launched a campaign calling for sweeping reforms to the National Security Agency.

The death of former South African President Nelson Mandela reverberated around the globe over the weekend and right onto the front page of Apple's website. That tribute to the man's legacy -- along with many others across the internet -- is still live at this writing, but the 95-year-old certainly won't be forgotten anytime soon. Here's a look at what else made news over the weekend...

The poor iPhone 5c has had a rough time of it lately, with reports coming in almost every week about decreased production. But while it hasn't quite gained the attention of the Apple faithful, AppleInsider reports that it's proven relatively popular among a welcome audience: first-time Apple buyers switching over from Android.